Editions

Jonas will be given a chance - Pardew

Alan Pardew says Jonas Gutierrez will be given a chance to win back his Newcastle United place after overcoming testicular cancer.

Share

Written ByHarry West

height="148">

The Argentinian was diagnosed in September, and is yet to
feature this season.

Jonas was given the all-clear in November, with Pardew
subsequently stating that the 31-year-old would return to training
in December.

On Tuesday, the Newcastle boss declared that Jonas would return
to the fold over the coming weeks, and would be given a fair chance
to win back his spot in the side.

"Jonas is one of those people who livens up the training ground
just by his personality," Pardew told reporters.

"Of course, with him recovering from his illness, that's been
magnified.

"We are really pleased to have him back. He is finding his feet
a little bit. He hasn't been around the ball much, but he looks in
pretty good shape. We hope in two or three weeks, he will be in and
around us.

"He is keen to get back in amongst us and earn his right to play
in the first team again.

"Like any player, I have got to give him an even keel, and he
will get that. Now it is up to Jonas.

"I know one thing: it will be emotional for him, and for us,
when he does return. We are all looking forward to it."

Over the weekend, Hull City manager Steve Bruce declared that
the whereabouts of on-loan Newcastle winger Hatem Ben Arfa were
unknown, sparking rumours that the Frenchman's deal at the KC
Stadium would be cancelled.

However, a return to St James' Park looks unlikely, with Pardew
appearing to rule it out.